Even when it’s the best decision for your family, divorce is never easy. But you don’t have to go through it alone. You have the right to navigate the entire process with dependable legal guidance. The Hackensack, NJ divorce lawyers at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. have a reputation for results and over 40 years of experience to offer you during this pivotal life chapter.
Our full-service firm can provide holistic advice and insight tailored to your specific situation; in other words, our counsel extends beyond divorce matters like custody and alimony. We can help you understand how your divorce will affect your estate plan, retirement, and even your immigration status, so that you have what you need to make informed decisions each step of the way.
When you’re ready to speak with our Hackensack divorce lawyer, contact our team to set up a confidential consultation.
Why Do I Need A Divorce Lawyer?
While not legally required, it’s in your best interest to work with a divorce attorney. For those concerned about attorney fees, it’s understandable to consider self-representation. But, truthfully, not partnering with a divorce lawyer could lead to costly events down the road.
Working with our experienced attorneys can help make sure issues like retirement savings, alimony/spousal support, and child custody get sorted and resolved in tune with your best interests. Without knowledgeable legal counsel, you’ll be more vulnerable to falling into arrangements that disrupt your financial security and your ideal family dynamic.
Eligibility To File For Divorce In New Jersey
To file for divorce in New Jersey, either you or your spouse must have lived in the state for at least one year. However, in cases involving adultery, you may file in New Jersey as long as one of you is a current resident.
New Jersey recognizes both fault and no-fault divorces. There are nine grounds for divorce in New Jersey. Irreconcilable differences and separation of at least 18 months are grounds for a no fault divorce. The remaining seven are fault-based:
- Abandonment: When one spouse willfully deserts the other for at least 12 months, having left the marital home without any intent to return or communicate.
- Addiction: When one spouse has a substance abuse problem, whether it be drugs or alcohol, that has lasted for at least 12 months and has severely impacted the marriage.
- Adultery: When one spouse has engaged in an extramarital affair.
- Extreme cruelty: When one spouse has subjected the other to physical or mental cruelty.
- Deviant sexual conduct: When one spouse has engaged in sexually deviant behavior that the other spouse finds intolerable.
- Imprisonment: When one spouse is incarcerated for a crime, leading to a separation of at least 18 months.
- Institutionalization: When one spouse has been committed to a mental health institution for at least 24 consecutive months.
Address Your Questions With A Divorce Lawyer
You deserve to begin your new life chapter with confidence and peace of mind. Whether you’re considering filing for divorce or have already been served papers, don’t hesitate to enlist the help of our Hackensack divorce lawyer at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. The firm has been representing New Jersey families and securing meaningful, sustainable results for over four decades. Put their experienced advocacy in your corner today.
Hackensack Divorce Infographic
Hackensack Divorce Statistics
Divorce is a significant social issue that affects many families in the United States. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), approximately 40% to 50% of marriages in the U.S. end in divorce. While the divorce rate has generally decreased over the years, it remains a prevalent issue, with the most common causes being communication problems, financial stress, and infidelity. The National Center for Family & Marriage Research reports that the divorce rate for first marriages is around 40%, increasing to approximately 60% for second marriages and 73% for third marriages.
Divorce has significant financial implications. A study by the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE) found that 40% of divorced individuals reported a reduction in their standard of living after the divorce, with many facing challenges related to child support, alimony, and division of assets. Children of divorced parents may also experience emotional and psychological effects, with studies indicating that children from divorced families are more likely to face academic and behavioral issues.
Despite these challenges, many people who go through a divorce successfully rebuild their lives, and with proper support and counseling, the long-term impact can be minimized.
Hackensack Divorce FAQs
A Hackensack, NJ divorce lawyer understands that divorce can be a challenging and emotional process, and it’s natural to have questions about the steps involved. We’ve answered some of the most common questions we hear to help you understand what to expect and how to prepare for this process.
How Do I Start The Divorce Process?
The divorce process typically begins when one spouse files a petition with the court. This petition outlines the request to end the marriage and may include specific information about child custody, property division, and spousal support if applicable. Once filed, the other spouse will be served with the petition and allowed to respond. A Hackensack divorce lawyer is here to help you navigate each step, from filing the petition to handling any necessary paperwork and communication with the court, so you understand each part of the process as we go along.
How Is Property Divided In Divorce?
Property division is usually determined by whether the state follows community property or equitable distribution rules. In community property states, assets acquired during the marriage are divided equally. In states following equitable distribution, the division of property is based on what the court considers fair, which may not always be an even split. Factors such as the length of the marriage, contributions of each spouse, and financial needs can influence the outcome. We help assess your property and financial situation to work toward a fair arrangement that reflects your individual needs.
What Are The Options For Child Custody And Support?
Child custody decisions focus on what’s in the best interests of the child. Custody arrangements can be joint, where both parents share responsibilities, or sole, where one parent has primary custody. Child support is generally calculated based on each parent’s income, custody arrangement, and the child’s specific needs. We assist you in understanding how these factors apply to your case and work with you to reach an arrangement that supports your child’s well-being.
How Long Does The Divorce Process Take?
The time it takes to complete a divorce can vary based on the circumstances. If both spouses agree on key issues, the process may be relatively quick, sometimes lasting a few months. However, if there are disagreements over property, custody, or support, it can take longer as these issues are resolved through negotiation or in court. While we aim to keep things as straightforward as possible, we also work to address any areas of disagreement in a way that leads to a fair outcome.
How Are Legal Fees Handled In Divorce Cases?
Legal fees for divorce can depend on the complexity and duration of the case. Many firms, including ours, offer different fee structures to accommodate a variety of needs, such as hourly billing or flat fees for specific services. Before starting your case, a Hackensack divorce lawyer will provide a clear explanation of our fees and billing practices, so you know what to expect. This approach ensures there are no surprises, allowing you to focus on the steps ahead.
Hackensack Divorce Glossary
Since 1975, Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. has helped families in Hackensack and throughout New Jersey resolve their divorce matters with personalized care and trusted experience. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.
Alimony (Spousal Support)
Alimony, also known as spousal support, is a financial arrangement where one spouse provides monetary assistance to the other following a divorce. This support is designed to help the receiving spouse maintain a lifestyle similar to what they had during the marriage. In Hackensack, NJ, alimony is determined based on factors such as the length of the marriage, the standard of living established during the union, and each spouse’s financial circumstances. Types of alimony include rehabilitative alimony, aimed at helping a spouse gain financial independence, and permanent alimony, which is awarded in specific long-term marriages. At Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C., we help clients navigate this process to reach agreements that reflect fairness and financial security.
Equitable Distribution
New Jersey follows the principle of equitable distribution for dividing marital property during a divorce. This means assets and debts acquired during the marriage are divided fairly but not necessarily equally. Courts consider factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial contributions, and non-financial contributions like childcare or homemaking. Examples of marital assets include jointly owned homes, retirement accounts, and business interests. Our team carefully reviews financial documents and advocates for a property division outcome that meets your needs and secures your future.
Grounds For Divorce
In Hackensack, NJ, divorce can be filed on no-fault or fault-based grounds. No-fault grounds include irreconcilable differences or living separately for at least 18 months. Fault-based grounds, such as abandonment, adultery, extreme cruelty, and substance abuse, may influence decisions related to alimony or custody. For example, proving a fault like addiction might support a claim for greater financial support if the addiction caused financial strain during the marriage. We guide clients in selecting appropriate grounds to protect their rights and interests during this challenging process.
Child Custody And Support
Child custody arrangements determine both legal custody (decision-making authority) and physical custody (where the child primarily lives). Courts prioritize the best interests of the child, assessing factors like the child’s health, emotional needs, and the stability of each parent’s home environment. Custody can be joint or sole, with parenting time schedules tailored to foster meaningful relationships. Child support is calculated based on a standardized formula that considers both parents’ income, the custody arrangement, and specific needs like education or healthcare expenses. Our firm works to create custody and support arrangements that ensure the child’s well-being while balancing parental responsibilities.
Confidential Consultation
A confidential consultation is a private meeting where clients can discuss their divorce concerns with an attorney. During this session, clients receive legal advice and begin planning a strategy for their case. This consultation is protected under attorney-client privilege, ensuring that sensitive details remain private. At Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C., we use this initial meeting to understand your unique situation and provide guidance on the steps ahead, giving you confidence as you move forward.
Let Us Help Guide You Through This Process
Divorce involves many decisions, and having clear answers can make the process easier. If you’re considering divorce or have questions about your situation, we’re here to help. Contact us at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. today for a consultation, and let us work with you to achieve a solution that meets your needs. With over forty years of experience, we’re committed to providing caring support to our clients every step of the way.